Suzuki RM-Z450

The Suzuki RM-Z450 had the distinct honor of being the first mass-produced Japanese 450cc motocross dirt bike to feature fuel injection. Suzuki postponed the released for its 2008 RM-Z450 so that it could work out some minor issues, but the RM-Z was worth the wait. With the new fueling technology, there seemed to be an influx of RM-Z450 owners at motocross tracks.

Motocrossers like the RM-Z can make awesome off-road bikes for its owners with little or no modifications, depending on the rider’s stud level.

The original Suzuki RM-Z450 dirt bike was introduced back in 2005 and it was a late release then as well. In the time since, the RM-Z450 has become known for its quick handling, and now with the fuel injection, quick starting after a crash or stall. Suzuki began using a four-speed transmission on the RM-Z but has since switched to a five-speed gearbox in the big Z450. Off-road riders have found the new RM-Z450 easy to convert thanks to the added electrical system of the fuel-injection. It hasn’t happened yet, but Suzuki will certainly market an enduro version of the RM-Z450 at some point, which has been anxiously awaited ever since the first RM-Z was released.

The RM-Z450 enjoyed mild success in America until Ricky Carmichael used the Z450 to claim his final pair of titles in 2006 when he snared the AMA Supercross and AMA Motocross championships. He still works with Suzuki to develop future generations of the RM-Z450. Suzuki legend, Roger DeCoster is also instrumental in the American racing and development efforts for the Suzuki RM-Z450, and with a duo like that in its corner, the RM-Z450 has strength and experience behind it.